An insider's guide to the English Season

RHS CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW May 22-26 (0844 338 7506 , rhs.org.uk/chelseaflowershow
) The 150-year-old floral bonanza run by the Royal Horticultural Society takes place in the grounds of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea. Its central pavilion features floral displays of terrifying perfection, and its show gardens are amazing. How to get tickets The first three days are closed to the public: Monday is press day, when the Queen visits, ending with one of the most sought-after events in London, the Gala Preview. Tickets start at £350 and anyone can apply for the ballot, but allocations were completed by November last year. Bar a private or corporate invitation, there is nothing you can do about this. Tuesday and Wednesday are members' days (join quickly and you can still buy tickets). Thursday, Friday and Saturday cost £49 for an all-day public ticket (8am-8pm), £28 for 3.30pm tickets, £22 for 5.30pm.